Ever since its founding almost 150 years ago, the brand with the guiding star has established itself as a pioneer in high-precision timing and a key operator in the development of the industrial architecture of Le Locle, which has meanwhile been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Zenith has thus committed to major work designed to incorporate its cutting-edge industrial facility by ensuring seamless integration of the 80 different professions exercised within its workshops and governed remaining fiercely determined to preserve the historical character of its architectural heritage.

The work on the central building of the Manufacture, which began in August 2011, has just been completed. Erected as three-storey premises in 1905, the building now more than ever embodies the very essence of the Manufacture Zenith, marrying the authenticity of a unique tradition and the boldness of state-of-the-art technologies.

The façade has kept its iconic red bricks dating back to the early 20th century, while light continues to reign supreme. The vintage 400 multi-paned picture windows have been entirely restored and now combine triple glazing with their carefully preserved historical character. The name Zenith and the three initials of its founder Georges Favre-Jacot are spelled out between these giant windows.

While the metal framework, another symbol of the start of the industrial era, has been preserved, the most modern and environment-friendly construction standards such as thermal insulation or air conditioning and humidity control have been implemented. The interior design has been entirely revamped in order to enhance the logistical flow between the various production workshops accommodated within the building and dedicated to machining, stamping, decoration, testing, assembly, adjustment, casing up and Haute Horlogerie.

Source: Zenith